Name: 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 360 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless); 24 ounces jarred no-sugar added salsa verde; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 15 ounces canned great northern or navy beans; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

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There’s something magical about a warm bowl of chili when the temperatures drop outside. The aroma of spices filling the kitchen as the slow cooker works its magic is one of my favorite winter rituals. That’s why I adore this recipe for 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the rich, savory scent of chili wafting through your home. It’s a comforting thought, isn’t it? With this simple recipe, you won’t just satisfy your hunger; you’ll also warm your soul. This chili is packed with flavor, perfect for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
6 hr

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
360 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
40 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, AIP, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Slow Cooker

The Appeal of This 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde

Why do I love this 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde so much? Here are just a few reasons:

1. Simplicity is Key

This recipe only requires five primary ingredients that you can easily find at any grocery store. That means no complicated shopping lists or endless searching for specialty items. Just grab some chicken, salsa verde, beans, broth, and cilantro, and you’re good to go!

2. Flavor Explosion

Don’t let the simplicity fool you! The combination of the chicken and salsa verde creates a depth of flavor that’s incredibly satisfying. The spices in the salsa elevate the dish, making every bite a delightful experience.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

This chili is an excellent option for meal prep. You can make a big batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. Versatile and Customizable

Want to make it a bit spicier? Add some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce. Looking to make it creamier? A dollop of sour cream on top can do wonders. This recipe provides a great base that you can tailor to your preferences.

5. Family-Friendly

Kids love it, too! With its mild flavors and comforting texture, it’s a dish that the whole family will enjoy. You can even let everyone customize their own bowls with toppings like cheese, avocado, or extra cilantro.

Ingredients Required for 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde

In this comforting dish, each ingredient plays a significant role in creating a robust flavor profile. The key players are the chicken, salsa verde, and beans, which harmonize beautifully to make a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
24 ounces jarred no-sugar added salsa verde
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
15 ounces canned great northern or navy beans
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions for 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde

Cooking this delicious 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps to create a bowl of comfort that everyone will love.

First, gather all your ingredients. Place the chicken breast into the slow cooker. This will be the base of your chili and will add heartiness to the dish.
Next, pour in the salsa verde. This is where the flavor magic happens! The sauce will envelop the chicken, infusing it with zesty goodness.
Add the low-sodium chicken broth to ensure there’s enough liquid for the slow cooking process. It helps in tenderizing the chicken and keeps everything moist.
Now, open the can of great northern beans and drain it. Add the beans into the slow cooker. They will provide extra protein and a creamy texture.
Stir everything gently, making sure the chicken is well-coated with the salsa verde and the beans are mixed in. This ensures even cooking.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours, or on high for 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and flavorful.
Once the cooking time is up, check that the chicken is fully cooked. It should shred easily with a fork. Remove it from the slow cooker and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker. Stir it into the chili to combine.
Before serving, chop the fresh cilantro and sprinkle it over the top of each bowl. This adds a fresh touch that brightens the entire dish.
Finally, ladle the chili into bowls, making sure to scoop out plenty of the delicious broth and beans along with the chicken.

Things Worth Knowing

Slow cooking: This method allows the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully.
Choosing chicken: Use good quality, fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Beans: Great northern or navy beans work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with others!
Serving suggestion: Top with avocado or cheese for an added layer of flavor.

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking for ways to elevate your 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde, here are some helpful tips:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later.
Pairing: Serve with warm tortillas or over rice for a complete meal.
Spice it up: For a kick, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix.
Fresh toppings: Consider garnishing with diced onions, avocado, or cheese for added flavor.
Serving size: This recipe is perfect for a family dinner but can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Great Combinations for 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde

Serving a dish like 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde opens up a world of delicious possibilities. Here are some fantastic combinations to consider:

Lunch or Dinner: This chili makes a hearty lunch option or a satisfying dinner. Pair it with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
Seasonal Serving: During colder months, this dish is perfect for warming up after outdoor activities.
Garnishing: Top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge; they only get better with time!
Occasions: Ideal for game days, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for the 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde. However, you’ll need to extend the cooking time by an hour or two. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. Cooking from frozen is a great option if you didn’t have time to thaw!

This chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I recommend serving it with warm tortillas, rice, or a simple salad. For added richness, a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can take it to the next level. You can also serve it as a filling for burritos or tacos!

Leftover 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just ensure it’s cooled down before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing its flavor!

If you want to make a vegetarian version of this chili, simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein, like lentils or chickpeas. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these ingredients may not take as long to cook. The rest of the ingredients can stay the same, and you’ll still enjoy the delicious flavors of salsa verde!

Conclusion

The 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde is truly a dish that warms both the heart and the belly. It’s a simple recipe that brings comfort and flavor with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. I encourage you to try this out for your next family dinner or meal prep session. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and your taste buds will thank you for it!